Royal Enfield Hunter 350: Real-Time User Experience

I decided to purchase Royal Enfield Hunter 350 as it is light and easy to ride as compared to other Royal Enfield bikes. Further, during my usual riding, the first thing that I spotted was the ease with which it can be used during a normal city traffic jam. On papers, it has a 349cc engine, has reasonable ground clearance and mileage figures that would meet daily riding requirements.

In daily use, the experience feels quite even with good performance and a few areas needing improvement over time. Moreover, here’s what I noticed during regular usage across different riding conditions:

• The bike feels like a value for money option in the 350cc motorcycle segment for most buyers.
• Moreover, the single seat setup offers enough comfort for both rider and pillion during short & medium rides.
• The wide handlebar, therefore, improves control and make riding easier in city traffic and highway conditions.
• The braking system, moreover, gives strong confidence and performs well during sudden stops at different speeds.
• However, the rear suspension feels stiff, especially when riding on uneven roads or speed breakers regularly.

1.What has been my experience with the Hunter 350 performance?

In my case, I have found the bike to be very steady and smooth in performance particularly when commuting through the city on a daily basis and when taking short rides. What is more, the 350cc engine is sophisticated and reacts to low speeds, which is beneficial in traffic. 

The performance is however not quite aggressive but comes out to be very consistent and easy to handle by most riders. Thus, highway riding is not an uncomfortable experience, and it does not feel straining to ride at an average speed of approximately 100 km/h.

2. How much mileage am I getting from Hunter 350 in real life?

In my usage, the mileage stays within a good range for my daily riding needs. Moreover, in city conditions, I usually get around 33 to 34 kmpl depending on traffic and riding style.

On highways, however, the mileage improves and reaches around 37 to 38 kmpl with steady throttle input. Therefore, these numbers feel acceptable considering the engine size and overall riding conditions.

3. How has my experience been with riding comfort and handling?

In my experience, the seating feels comfortable for daily riding, especially during short to medium distance travel. Moreover, the single seat setup supports both rider and pillion without causing much discomfort during regular usage.

The wide handlebar, therefore, improves handling and makes the bike easier to control in traffic conditions. However, the rear suspension feels stiff, which becomes noticeable on rough roads and uneven surfaces.

4. Is the Hunter 350 suitable for highway riding?

From my experience, the bike performs well enough for occasional highway rides and longer stretches at steady speeds. Moreover, it can reach a top speed of around 120 km/h, which feels sufficient for most riders.

The braking system, therefore, gives confidence at higher speeds and works effectively during sudden braking situations. However, it may not feel ideal for very long touring rides compared to other models.

5. What problems have I faced with Hunter 350?

One issue I noticed is the lack of backrest support for the pillion during longer rides. Moreover, this affects comfort when I ride with a passenger for extended distances regularly.

The gap between the pillion footrest and gear shifter, however, feels limited and slightly uncomfortable at times. The rear suspension, therefore, feels stiff and becomes noticeable on uneven roads and speed breakers.

I also feel that the build quality could be improved in certain areas over time. Moreover, engine heating is present, however, I understand that this is common in most 350cc motorcycles.

6. Is Hunter 350 worth buying based on user reviews?

As a user, the bike gives the impression that it represents a powerful value-based choice of bike to use on a daily basis. In addition, it is well-comfy, with good mileage, and comfortable ride that can be used in the city.

Nevertheless, you must pay attention to the suspension system and minor comfort matters before reaching a final conclusion. So, according to the reviews of the users, it has the rating of approximately 4.5 out of 5.

7. What do I like and dislike about Hunter 350?

In my experience, the bike has a good mix of positives & a few areas that could be better. Moreover, here are the things I noticed during regular usage:

What I like:

• Royal Enfield Hunter 350 feels light and easy to handle in daily city rides.
• Moreover, the seat feels comfortable for both rider and pillion during short rides.
• The handlebar, therefore, gives better control in traffic and tight spaces.
• Braking feels strong and gives confidence during sudden stops.
• The exhaust sound feels good and adds to the riding experience.

What I dislike:

• However, the rear suspension feels stiff on rough roads and speed breakers.
• Moreover, there is no backrest support for the pillion.
• The footrest and gear shifter gap feels tight and slightly uncomfortable.
• Build quality, therefore, could be better in some areas.